Wrexham, the Welsh football club co-owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, is making waves on their first-ever preseason tour of Australia and New Zealand. After a triumphant 3-0 victory over Melbourne Victory in front of nearly 40,000 fans at Marvel Stadium, the Red Dragons are set to face Sydney FC in their next match. However, their journey hasn't been without its quirks, particularly their encounter with the infamous 'No Sherrin Rule.'

What is the 'No Sherrin Rule'?

The 'No Sherrin Rule' is a tongue-in-cheek guideline in Australia where high-profile touring football teams are quickly introduced to the Sherrin, the iconic oval-shaped ball used in Australian Rules Football (AFL). This tradition, while lighthearted, highlights the cultural intersection between the global game of football and Australia's indigenous sport.

Wrexham's AFL Experience

Wrexham proved no exception to this rule, with players visiting Hawthorn's training session and attending Brisbane's AFL match against Carlton. Midfielder George Evans, who scored in the match against Melbourne Victory, was particularly enamored with the AFL, calling it a 'fascinating' experience.

The Bigger Picture

This crossover isn't just about fun; it reflects the complex relationship between Australian Rules Football and soccer in Australia. While AFL has historically dominated the local sports scene, soccer has been steadily growing, and Wrexham's tour is a testament to this evolution. The club is also engaging with local communities through football clinics led by former players Ben Foster and Ben Tozer.

What’s Next for Wrexham?

After arriving in Sydney, the team is preparing for their clash with Sydney FC at the iconic Homebush Stadium. They’ll also take time to explore Sydney’s landmarks, including the Opera House, continuing their cultural immersion Down Under.

Quotes

George Evans: 'Watched the game here, first time experiencing it, and I absolutely loved it. It's a game that we didn't know too much about beforehand, and then obviously came to the Marvel stadium to watch it, and I was fascinated the whole game. So I'm a big fan and will definitely watch more.'

Attendance Highlights

The official attendance of 37,020 fans at Wrexham's game against Melbourne Victory surpassed the largest crowd during the 2024-25 A-League Men season, sparking discussions about the growing popularity of football in Australia.